Judge sends voter citizenship suit back

WICHITA, Kan. -- A federal judge has sent back to federal elections
officials a request by Kansas and Arizona to force modifications in a national
voter registration form so the states can fully enforce proof-of-citizenship
requirements.

U.S. District Judge Eric Melgren on Friday sent the states' lawsuit back to the
U.S. Election Assistance Commission, with instructions that the commission has
to have a final decision by Jan. 17.

The states want the federal form to include instructions requiring Kansas and
Arizona residents to provide a birth certificate, passport or other proof of
U.S. citizenship when registering to vote.

The Justice Department says such a change places an additional obstacle for
eligible voters and would affect nationwide policy by setting a precedent.